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Tampa now homeports eight vessels from five cruise lines: Offering the variety of 4, 5, 7,   10, 11   and 14-day cruise itineraries. 

Why choose anywhere but Tampa?

As any itinerary planner knows, cruises provide guests with a unique and wonderful way to explore the world, allowing them to continuously move between beautiful locations and make memories that will last a lifetime. Every port of call on an itinerary plays a vital role in creating an enjoyable cruise experience, but what about the homeport?

Embarkation is as crucial to the overall cruise experience as the ship, its onboard amenities and the itinerary of picturesque ports. A homeport that is easy to navigate, and provides a variety of unique and interesting activities just steps from the ship? Now that’s an attractive prospect for guests. And that’s exactly what cruise operators and their itinerary planners will find at Port Tampa Bay on Florida’s West Coast.

Positive impressions start from the moment the cruise guests arrive at the modern, award-winning Tampa International Airport. The airport is a convenient 15-minute drive from the Channelside District in Downtown Tampa, which enables travellers to get a view of the water and soak up the Florida vibe and sunshine before they arrive at one of the three cruise terminals.

But that’s just the beginning. One of the growing trends both cruise lines and their itinerary planners are seeing is an increase in the number of guests who are interested in extending their cruise by enjoying the pre- and post-cruise activities in the homeport city.

Tampa is ideally suited for catering to this trend, given that it is located between some of the world’s most popular theme parks (including Busch Gardens in Tampa) and acclaimed beaches with crystal-clear waters in the cities of Clearwater and St. Pete Beach. In addition, guests are just steps from the sights, sounds and experiences of Downtown Tampa. The district is a destination in itself, thanks to attractions like the Florida Aquarium, Sparkman Wharf, new shops and restaurants on Water Street, the unique Ybor City (Tampa’s Latin Quarter) and Downtown Tampa’s Riverwalk, which has spectacular views and is close to eateries and nightlife. 

Port Tampa Bay and the city’s tight network of forward-thinking tourism organisations work together to provide cruise lines’ itinerary planners with the high-quality services they need to help their guests make the most of these tourist attractions during their time in Tampa. For example, Visit Tampa Bay (the city’s tourism agency) collaborates closely with Port Tampa Bay and Tampa International Airport to assist itinerary planners with transportation options that can handle all sizes of guest groups.

Multiple cruise lines have already reaped the benefits of homeporting their ships at Port Tampa Bay. Carnival Cruise Line’s Carnival Paradise and Carnival Pride, Royal Caribbean International’s Radiance of the Seas and Enchantment of the Seas and Grandeur of the Seas, Celebrity Cruises' Constellation,  Norwegian Cruise Line’s Jade and Margaritaville at Seas' Islander all sail out of the city, enabling cruise travellers to explore multiple destinations across the Caribbean and Central America.

To learn more about the various destinations our cruise partners sail to, visit our Cruise Destinations page. 

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Moffitt Cancer Center at Port Tampa Bay

Port Tampa Bay is proud to partner with Moffitt Cancer Center on a new community outreach and education center. Health care professionals, community leaders and advocates who are committed to making a difference in the fight against cancer have a new location to better connect with the Tampa Bay area community. Moffitt Cancer Center at Port Tampa Bay is located in the busy Water Street district across from The Florida Aquarium at Port Tampa Bay’s Cruise Terminal 2.

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Cruises from Tampa, Florida

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Tampa Bay, Florida Port Guide

Located off the beautiful Gulf Coast of Central Florida, Tampa Bay is a lively city ripe for exploration. Spend an afternoon strolling through the historic district of Ybor City or walk along the waterfront and grab a bite to eat at the trendy Armature Works. Sports fans can catch a game at the Raymond James Stadium, while thrill-seekers can head to Busch Gardens, home to exhilarating roller coasters that are guaranteed to get your heart pumping.

Tampa Bay is a convenient embarkation point for those looking for a sunny vacation to the Caribbean. Cruises from Tampa sail to all corners of this tropical region, from the exotic islands of the Western Caribbean, the popular ABC Islands (Aruba, Bonaire, and Curacao) further down south, and the heavenly beaches of the Eastern Caribbean. 

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Featured destinations, eastern caribbean.

Pristine beaches and fascinating history await in the Eastern Caribbean, where you’ll stop in popular destinations like Puerto Rico and the Dominican Republic, along with more under-the-radar islands such as St. Kitts and Nevis. Explore ancient forts in San Juan, lounge on the powdery white sand beaches of St. Maarten, and spot colorful schools of fish while snorkeling in St. Thomas—there’s no shortage of fun to enjoy.

Southern Caribbean

The Southern Caribbean promises palm trees, white-sand beaches, and crystal clear waters—all the ingredients you’ll need for an unforgettable vacation. Experience the vibrant city of San Juan, Puerto Rico. Lounge on the flawless beaches of Grand Cayman and Labadee, and enjoy quality time with your family in the ABC Islands.

Sail down the Panama Canal, an engineering masterpiece that allows ships to sail between the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. Watch as its complex system of locks unfolds, then stop in the historic center of Panama Viejo, where you’ll learn all about the town’s pirate history. During Panama Canal itineraries, you’ll also stop in idyllic destinations in Central and South America, including the jungles of Costa Rica, the romantic city of Cartagena in Colombia, and the beautiful island of Cozumel in Mexico.

Western Caribbean

The islands of the Western Caribbean offer the ideal mix of adventure and relaxation in a lush, tropical environment. Dive into some of the world’s best-preserved coral reefs in Cozumel and explore the famous Mesoamerican Barrier Reef off the coast of Belize. You’ll find it hard to choose a favorite from the area’s picturesque beaches.

Our Ship Sailing Out of Tampa

Celebrity constellation, why sail from tampa with celebrity cruises.

Embark on a trip of a lifetime aboard Celebrity Constellation, a magnificent ship where you’ll be surrounded by effortless luxury, impeccable service, and world-class entertainment. Book an indulgent stay at The Retreat, our luxury vacation experience, which features a private restaurant, lounge, and exclusive amenities. Savor delectable dishes at any of our onboard restaurants with menus crafted by a Michelin-starred chef. Watch exciting performances in the theater and enjoy family fun at the pool deck. 

Set sail from the convenient port of Tampa Bay in Florida and travel to some of the most coveted destinations in the Caribbean and Central America. Discover the magic of Mexico with stops in Cozumel and Costa Maya. Wherever you choose to go, paradise awaits at every turn.

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Tampa port facilities & location.

Passengers departing on cruises from Tampa Bay will leave from Port Tampa Bay, home to three cruise terminals. Just outside of the cruise terminals is the Channelside district, where you’ll find a handful of shops and restaurants. Tourist information centers, Wi-Fi, and bathrooms are available at the port.

Top Sights & Attractions for Cruises from Tampa

Once dubbed the “Cigar Capital of the World,” the Ybor City district is rich in history and Latin culture. Stop in one of the area’s many cigar shops and buy a few hand-rolled cigars to take home. Spend the day mingling with locals at one of the craft breweries, or simply stroll the cobblestone streets and admire the façades of this charming neighborhood before boarding one of our Tampa cruises.

Dalí Museum

If you’re a fan of celebrated Spanish artist Salvador Dalí, then a visit to the awe-inspiring Dalí Museum in St. Pete is a must. The museum is home to the largest collection of his art outside of Europe. The gift shop is a great place to grab a quirky gift to take home.

The Florida Aquarium

Rated one of the best aquariums in the country, the Florida Aquarium is located just steps away from Tampa’s port area. Here, you can pet stingrays, get up close with African penguins, and even spot dolphins in the wild on a catamaran cruise. The aquarium is so close to the port that passengers leaving on cruises from Tampa can bring their luggage, which the venue will safely store while you explore.

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Top things to do in tampa, visit a gulf coast beach.

Some of the nation’s leading beaches are found on the Gulf Coast, and passengers on Tampa cruises will have plenty of award-winning options to explore. Clearwater Beach frequently tops best-of lists. At Fort de Soto, you can canoe or kayak, hunt for seashells, and explore the historic fort. At the upscale St. Pete Beach, try an exciting watersport like parasailing or kiteboarding, or simply lounge on its sugary sands.

Explore Downtown St. Petersburg

Located southwest of the city of Tampa, St. Pete is an artsy city that boasts upscale boutiques and restaurants, museums and art galleries, and fun activities for the whole family. If you’re here on a Saturday, stop in the Saturday Morning Market for live music, international cuisine, and artisan goods.

Catch a Game

No matter what type of sport you’re into, you’re bound to find it here in Tampa. Sit near the ice and dodge pucks at a Lightning game, cheer on the Bucs to the sounds of a pirate ship’s cannonballs blasting at Raymond James Stadium, or snack on cracker jacks while watching the Yankees during spring training or the Rays during the regular season.

Where can I eat near the Tampa Cruise Port?

Bern’s Steak House

1208 S. Howard Ave., Tampa

For the ultimate culinary experience in Tampa Bay, Bern’s Steak House is the most sought-after choice. Its extraordinary wine menu, delectable steaks, and magnificent dessert room make it a top spot to celebrate a special occasion. Reservations are recommended.

Armature Works

1910 N. Ola Ave., Tampa

Once the home of a phosphate machinery manufacturer, Armature Works is Tampa’s trendiest new dining destination located along the Hillsborough River. Choose from a number of innovative restaurants in this fully restored warehouse with a picturesque outdoor space.

2117 E. 7th Ave., Tampa

Visit the state’s oldest restaurant and world’s largest Spanish restaurant at Columbia, a renowned Y-Bor City institution. Marvel at Spanish flamenco dancers while you dine on delicious tapas and fresh seafood dishes.

What’s the culture and history of Tampa?

Tampa Bay’s Native American history can be traced as far back as 900 A.D. Multiple tribes inhabited the region until the arrival of Ponce de Leon in the 1500s when their populations began to decline. In the 1820s, the U.S. Army founded Fort Brooke to protect the city’s valuable harbor area.

Today, Tampa’s port is one of the largest in the nation due to its phosphate shipping and shrimp trading. Its culture is diverse and thriving, with influences from Latin and Caribbean communities. The annual Gasparilla festival, which celebrates the legend of pirate José Gaspar, attracts half a million people to the city every year.

How can I get around Tampa?

To get from the Tampa cruise port to most attractions in the city, you’ll need to rent a car or use a ridesharing service. There are a handful of car rental agencies located close to the port. You can also take the TECO Line Streetcar around downtown Tampa and Y-Bor. There’s a stop nearby where cruises from Tampa depart. For a fun way to see the city, try a water taxi, which will take you to various stops along the water.

Where can I go shopping near the Tampa cruise port?

International Plaza is an upscale shopping destination with both brand-name and luxury stores, plus a number of world-class restaurants, located about 20 minutes away from the port. For upscale boutiques in a picturesque setting, head to Hyde Park Village, just 10 minutes from the port.

What are local currency and tipping customs?

Tampa, along with the rest of the United States, uses the U.S. Dollar. You’ll find ATMs throughout the city’s most-visited destinations and neighborhoods. Credit cards are widely accepted, though it’s always wise to have some cash on hand. At restaurants and bars, a 15% to 20% tip is suggested.

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Norwegian Jewel

The 2,376-passenger Norwegian Jewel (the namesake of the line's Jewel-class ships) has been cruising since 2005 and and underwent an extensive refurbishment in 2022. It reemerged boasting more than 25 refreshed venues. With its low 1-to-2 crew-to-guest ratio, the ship makes tailored experiences a priority.

With 14 eateries and 12 bars and lounges, every guest has plenty of elbow room. Passenger favorites include the specialty Brazilian steakhouse.

While Jewel appeals to a variety of traveler types, it's especially well-suited for families thanks to its age-appropriate kids clubs, a video arcade and waterslides. But there are plenty of diversions to keep grown-ups occupied as well, such as a full-service spa, a casino, sports facilities and an art nouveau-style theater.

As for lodging, cruisers can choose between Inside, Oceanview, Balcony, Club Balcony Suite and Suite category cabins. Those looking for even more space and luxury should opt for a cabin in The Haven, which offers multiple bedrooms and access to a private sun deck. 

Norwegian Jewel sails to a variety of destinations throughout California, Alaska, Asia, Mexico, South America and more.

Celebrity Constellation

Launched in 2002, Celebrity Constellation can accommodate up to 2,184 passengers. The 1-to-2 staff-to-guest ratio allows for personalized attention. Constellation is scheduled for a full refurbishment in spring 2024, when it will receive brand-new staterooms, new lounge areas and luxurious refittings as part of a $500 million fleetwide modernization program. 

The ship offers nine dining options, including three specialty restaurants that require advanced reservations and an additional fee. Constellation also offers the Luminae restaurant exclusively reserved for Suite Class passengers.

For entertainment, Constellation features the casino, as well as more than 500 activities for younger passengers. The whole family can visit the art gallery featuring one of the largest permanent collections of contemporary art. At night, visit one of the ship's many lounges or enjoy a film under the stars on the Rooftop Terrace.

When it comes to lodging, the ship offers a wide range of cabin categories. Passengers can also choose from Concierge, Aqua and Family Ocean View category rooms, as well as a variety of suites that offer extras such as butler service and unlimited internet access.

Celebrity Constellation sails throughout the Caribbean and Europe. 

Carnival Miracle

Like other Carnival ships, the 2,124-passenger Carnival Miracle boasts activities and entertainment geared toward travelers of all ages. Thanks to a renovation in 2020, the ship features upgrades like Guy's Burger Joint, WaterWorks, RedFrog Rum Bar, BlueIguana Cantina and more. The ship also received a minor refresh to interior and exterior spaces in 2022. 

Even with the added venues, a nearly 2-to-1 guest-to-crew ratio ensures service is a priority. And compared to other Carnival ships, Miracle offers a higher percentage of cabins with ocean views. While Interior staterooms provide more wallet-friendly digs, Ocean View, Balcony and Suite category cabins offer more space and scenery. All cabins come equipped with flat-screen TVs and 24-hour room service.

During days at sea, grown-ups can enjoy poolside lounging or the adults-only Serenity Retreat, while kids ages 2 to 17 can play at age-specific programs.  There are also entertainment options like the Punchliner Comedy Club, the SkyBox Sports Bar and the Seuss at Sea program. Once the family works up an appetite, they'll have their pick of the main dining room, the Lido buffet, a specialty steakhouse (for an extra fee) and more.

Carnival Miracle departs from Galveston, Texas ;  Los Angeles  and  San Francisco  to destinations in the Caribbean, the Panama Canal,  Hawaii , Mexico , and Alaska . 

Rhapsody of the Seas

Introduced in 1997 and last refurbished in 2022, Rhapsody of the Seas features a rock climbing wall and an LED poolside movie screen. In its most recent update, it received new carpeting, renovations to the pools and sun decks and more. With the capacity to transport 2,416 guests and 765 crew members, the ship has a moderate 1-to-3 crew-to-passenger ratio.

About 60% of staterooms feature ocean views. Interior cabins range from 136 to 252 square feet, while the largest suites span more than 1,000 square feet. All cabins include flat-screen TVs and minibars. Past cruisers were particularly impressed with the service across the ship, especially in the accommodations.

In addition to the comfortable cabins, travelers enjoyed the cuisine. Guests can choose between the main dining room or the extensive buffet, as well as three specialty restaurants. Afterward, grab a nightcap in one of the multiple bars and lounges.

Rhapsody of the Seas departs from Fort Lauderdale , Florida, and ports across the Middle East and South America for sailings in Europe and the Caribbean.

Radiance of the Seas

Launched in 2001 and last updated in 2016, Radiance of the Seas is one of Royal Caribbean's smaller ships, carrying up to 2,466 guests and 894 crew members. It underwent routine renovations in 2021. Many cruisers gave high marks for the ship's service, thanks to its nearly 1-to-3 crew-to-passenger ratio. The ship boasts a total of 10 dining venues, including specialty restaurants like Giovanni's Table, a main dining room and large buffet. Dining shipwide received mixed reviews. 

Guests praise the onboard entertainment, which includes Broadway-style shows, a casino and an abundance of bars and lounges. Although the ship doesn't boast some of the megaship amenities found on larger Royal Caribbean vessels, it does offer rock climbing, mini-golf and three pools. Kids can also take advantage of age-specific youth programs.

Radiance of the Seas offers four stateroom categories: Interior, Ocean View, Balcony and Suite. Solo travelers can also opt for Studio staterooms, which measure 108 square feet.

Radiance of the Seas departs from ports across North America for sailings in Alaska, the Caribbean, the Bahamas, the Panama Canal and the Pacific Northwest.

Grandeur of the Seas

Among Royal Caribbean's smaller ships, Grandeur of the Seas welcomes up to 2,440 guests and 760 crew members. While the ship boasts a rock climbing wall and six whirlpools, it lacks some of the modern amenities found on other Royal Caribbean ships, like a surf simulator and waterslides. However, a 2017 revamp updated the ship's cabins and added some new dining options, including fan favorite Izumi, which serves Japanese cuisine. The ship offers eight dining venues in total.

Similar to the rest of the fleet, the ship offers four stateroom categories (Interior, Ocean View, Balcony and Suite). Interior cabins range from 136 to 252 square feet, while Suites span 243 to 1,326 square feet. Recent travelers said a highlight was the service from their room stewards. The ship is best suited to adults, with a 6,843-square-foot casino, multiple bars and lounges and the spa.

Grandeur of the Seas sails from Boston, Fort Lauderdale, Florida; Miami ; and Tampa  for itineraries in the Caribbean and Canada.

Norwegian Jade

The 2,402-passenger Norwegian Jade was renovated in 2022. The updated ship is geared toward a diverse set of ages and traveler types. Plus, with 1,037 crew members, the service exceeded recent cruisers' expectations.

Aboard Jade, guests can choose from a spectrum of lodging options. While Inside cabins range from 138 to 278 square feet, the ship's Haven suites and villas measure between 440 and 4,719 square feet. These larger accommodations feature living and dining areas, balconies and private access to an exclusive courtyard.

Norwegian Jade features 13 restaurants (including seven specialty eateries) and a variety of bars, lounges and nightclubs. During the day, guests can take advantage of a wide array of activities, including a variety of sports, a spa and age-appropriate youth clubs. 

Norwegian Jade sails throughout ports in Tampa, Alaska, Europe and Caribbean.

Serenade of the Seas

Serenade of the Seas may have first debuted in 2003, but don't underestimate what a facelift can add. After some extensive upgrades in 2012 and again in 2017, plus a refresh of some public spaces in 2022, the ship now features modern dining options, upgraded cabin amenities, new lounges and bars and a poolside movie screen. 

Guests can dine at three complimentary eateries, including the two-level main dining room. The six specialty venues include Izumi Sushi & Hot Rocks Asian restaurant, Giovanni's Table and more. 

Recent passengers were complimentary of the service across the ship. With up to 2,476 guests and 832 crew members, the ship maintains a crew-to-passenger ratio of 1-to-3. Similar to other Royal Caribbean ships, Serenade of the Seas features four stateroom categories: Interior, Ocean View, Balcony and Suite. Studio Interior rooms cater to solo travelers at 108 square feet, while groups can opt for Suites that span 292 to 952 square feet. All cabins include flat-screen TVs and updated showers.

During the day, travelers can enjoy a rock climbing wall, a mini-golf course and six pools and whirlpools. Evening entertainment is just as varied, ranging from Broadway-style performances to acrobatic shows. You'll also have your pick of many bars and lounges.

Serenade of the Seas sails from ports across North America, the Middle East, South America, Europe and Asia to destinations in the Caribbean, Europe, the Panama Canal, Asia, Hawaii, Australia and the Pacific Northwest.

Carnival Spirit

With the capacity to accommodate 2,124 guests and 930 crew members, Spirit is among the smaller ships in the line's namesake class. Originally launched in April 2001, Carnival Spirit has undergone several refurbishments, most recently in 2022. Top amenities on this ship include WaterWorks – the onboard water park that features a 214-foot-tall spiral waterslide – three kids-only spaces and the Serenity Adult-Only Retreat.

Despite the somewhat recent renovations, some reviewers said the ship's cabins could still use a refresh to enhance the dated decor. Others cited thin walls. Carnival Spirit offers accommodation classes typical of the line (Interior, Ocean View, Balcony and Suite), but the ship does not feature some of the line's newer cabin categories, such as the Cloud 9 Spa staterooms.

Dining options are also more limited compared to the line's larger ships, but Carnival Spirit does offer specialty favorites like a steakhouse and sushi venue, as well as Guy's Burger Joint – a Guy Fieri eatery.

Carnival Spirit sails from Seattle , Miami  and Mobile, Alabama to ports in Alaska, the Bahamas , the Caribbean, the Panama Canal and Hawaii.

Enchantment of the Seas

Launched in 1997, Enchantment of the Seas underwent routine maintenance in late 2021, but its last major upgrade was in 2017. This refurbishment added imaginative features like a poolside movie screen, bungee trampolines and additional cabins. Other ship highlights include three pools, a rock climbing wall, a video game arcade and Broadway-inspired shows in the main theater.

For families, the ship offers age-appropriate kids clubs and a splash deck. And for adults, there are six bars and lounges on board, as well as a casino. When it comes to dining, the ship houses five venues and offers 24-hour room service and several other specialty food shops.

As far as lodging goes, only about 20% of the ship's cabins offer balconies, while Interior cabins make up about 40% of the staterooms. While the 2,730-passenger ship maintains a 1-to-3 crew-to-guest ratio with 852 crew members on board, recent cruisers still say all the Royal Caribbean employees – from the room stewards to the wait staff – were pleasant and accommodating. 

Enchantment of the Seas sails to the  Bahamas , Europe, the Mediterranean and the Caribbean.

Disclaimers about ship ratings: A ship’s Health Rating is based on vessel inspection scores published by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). If a ship did not receive a CDC score within 22 months prior to the calculation of its Overall Rating, its Health Rating appears as N/A; in such a case, the ship’s Overall Rating is calculated using the average Health Rating of all CDC-rated ships within the cruise line. All ship Traveler Ratings are based on ratings provided under license by Cruiseline.com.

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* Coming Soon

Set sail from Florida’s Gulf Coast and you’ll discover just how convenient — and action-packed — cruises out of Tampa can be. Welcome to one of Florida’s busiest ports — where the historically Cuban district of Ybor City, the aquarium, city shopping and local art museums are all in easy reach. Wide beaches and urban adventures are also at your fingertips when you book a Carnival cruise from Tampa. And come nightfall, 7th Avenue in Ybor City heats up, Latin-style.

• Step into a surreal universe at St. Petersburg’s Salvador Dalí Museum.
• Collect shells by sunset on the beaches of St. Pete and Clearwater.
• Canoe or kayak down the meandering Hillsborough River.

See it all from Tampa.

* Taxes, fees, and port expenses are additional per person.

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Complete Guide to Cruising From Port Tampa Bay

In our opinion, Port Tampa Bay is one of the best-kept secrets in cruising. While ports on the eastern side of Florida — including Miami, Port Everglades, and Port Canaveral — are well known thanks to the mega-ships and multiple terminals at each port, Tampa seems to sneak under the radar.

Despite the lack of notoriety, Port Tampa Bay offers a ton for cruise passengers. This includes multiple terminals with a constant stream of ships, lots to do in the area, more convenience, and fewer headaches than dealing with a larger port.

In other words, you get a lot of the benefits of a larger port without a lot of the drawbacks.

So whether you want to sail to The Bahamas, Mexico, or points in between, or if you want to sail on Carnival, Royal Caribbean, or Norwegian, the port has something to offer.

Below we dive into all the details of everything you need to know about sailing from the Port Tampa Bay.

• Distance from Tampa Airport: 10 miles
• Distance from Orlando Airport: 90 miles
• Number of Terminals: 3
• Passengers Carried Each Year: 1 million
• Cruise Ship Dockings Each Year: 180+

Port Tampa Bay Location

The cruise port sits in the Channel District of Tampa, which is just a couple of minutes from downtown, as well as the popular Ybor City area. If you are flying in, the port is only about 10 miles from Tampa International Airport, which will take you about 15-20 minutes.

While the location of the port is convenient for cruise passengers with lots to do and places to stay just a few minutes away, there is one drawback. When you head out to sea you will leave Tampa and head out of Tampa Bay, passing between St. Petersburg and Bradenton. There, you will pass under the Sunshine Skyway Bridge.

While the bridge is impressive, its height actually limits the size of the ships that can sail from Tampa. Larger ships just can’t get under the bridge. This is a reason why some of the biggest and newest ships don’t sail from the port.

Driving to the port? If so, the address you’ll want to use is:

651 Channelside Drive Tampa, Florida 33602

Like other Florida cities there is a lot to do in the area, and you may not be coming directly from the airport to the cruise port. If so, we have the estimated distances and drive times between a number of popular areas in the region:

• Tampa International Airport: 10 miles | 15-20 minutes
• Orlando International Airport: 90 miles | 1 hr 30 minutes
• St. Petersburg: 25 miles | 30-40 minutes
• Ybor City: 2 miles | 10 minutes
• Disney World: 70 miles | 1 hr 10 minutes
• Lakeland: 36 miles | 40-60 minutes
• Clearwater: 25 miles | 40-60 minutes
• Sarasota: 60 miles | 55-70 minutes

For more on getting to the port, see below.

Things to Do Near the Port

Tampa is blessed with no shortage of things to do, whether you want amusement parks, sporting events, culture, history, or more. Below are just a few things to do before or after your cruise.

The Florida Aquarium Literally right next door to the cruise terminals, the Florida Aquarium is a world-class facility with lots to see. Perfect if you have kids, the aquarium will get them up close and personal not only with fish, sharks, and turtles, but also wildlife like otters, lemurs, and more. In our opinion, if you have a couple of hours before or after your cruise, it’s a can’t miss attraction.

Ybor City Just about 10 minutes from the cruise port, Ybor City is a great place to head if you’re looking for something to do in the evening. The historic district is home to lots of older buildings that have been converted into shops and restaurants, most with a Latin flair. It’s great for a date night or just a stroll to explore and take in the atmosphere.

Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Want to have a little fun at the casino? Then head to the Seminole Hard Rock. The world-class gaming facility would fit right at home in Vegas, with a massive gaming floor, restaurants, and a hotel. It’s about 15-20 minutes away from the cruise port, but if you want to play slots, double down on blackjack, or toss the dice, then it’s a great place to spend some time (and money).

Cruise Terminals

Port Tampa Bay operates three different cruise terminals: Cruise Terminal #2, Cruise Terminal #3, and Cruise Terminal #6.

Cruise Terminal #2 If the port had a “main” terminal, this would be it. Terminal #2 sits at the southern end of the cruise complex. Parking is adjacent to the terminal, as is the Florida Aquarium and a complex of shops and restaurants.

Cruise Terminal #3 Along the eastern edge of the port, Cruise Terminal #3 often serves Royal Caribbean and Norwegian Cruise Lines. The location is right across from the official port parking garage, and with a berth length of 1,050 feet, the docking space can handle the larger ships to call on Port Tampa Bay.

Cruise Terminal #6 This terminal is the northernmost of the three terminals. That makes it extremely convenient if you just want to get to the ship and get on as there is parking right at the terminal and there isn’t as much traffic here. However, the terminal is a little farther from some of the activities like the aquarium and restaurants/shops that are further south in the complex.

Hotels Near the Port Tampa Bay

In a tourist hotspot like Tampa, there’s no shortage of places to stay. That means it can be convenient — and inexpensive — to stay the night before your cruise.

In general, we recommend that passengers flying in for their cruise plan to arrive a day early and stay the night. There are simply too many issues that can come up with flying that can cause delays to risk flying in on the day your cruise departs.

If you are driving in from the area, then you are usually fine driving to the port on the morning of your trip, but it still makes a lot of sense to stay in Tampa the night before. Not only is there a lot to see and do in the area, but it’s nice to already be in town on cruise day, meaning you can take your time in heading to the ship.

While the entire Tampa area can offer hotels, there aren’t many right at the port. The closest hotels are in downtown, which is a short distance away. There are also some hotels in Ybor City, which is also nearby.

Hotels near the cruise terminals:

• Hilton Garden Inn Tampa Ybor Historic District
• Hampton Inn Tampa Downtown Channel District
• Sheraton Tampa Riverwalk Hotel

As a city that caters to cruise passengers, there are also a number of Tampa hotels that offer parking during your cruise , as well as hotels with cruise shuttles . Below are a few options for each, but we suggest seeing our full list in the articles linked above.

Hotels with cruise parking:

• Barrymore Hotel
• Home2 Suites by Hilton Tampa Downtown Channel District
• Holiday Inn Express & Suites Tampa East – Ybor City

Hotels with shuttles/near streetcar stop:

• Tampa Marriott Water Street
• Hilton Garden Inn Ybor City
• Courtyard Tampa Downtown

Getting to Port Tampa Bay

Of course you can’t go on your cruise until you get to the ship. Fortunately, there is no shortage of ways to get from anywhere in the Tampa area to the cruise port, all at an affordable price.

We have all of your options and full details for getting to the port here . Below, we cover the most common ways for getting to the Port Tampa Bay.

Driving to the Port Many people elect to drive to the port, whether they live in the area or they fly in and have a rental car. Coming from Orlando? Expect the drive to take about an hour and a half. From spots in the Tampa/St. Pete region, it can take anywhere from 10-30 minutes, depending on where you are.

Driving definitely offers convenience of getting in and out from the port without relying on someone else to give you a ride. As well, Tampa offers relatively inexpensive parking. Official port parking is only $15 per day, but other independent lots can be even cheaper. (More on this below.)

Uber/Lyft Uber and Lyft are popular options to get around the Tampa Bay area because they make it easy to get from Point A to Point B, no matter where you are trying to go. Simply open up the app, request a ride and it should be there within minutes (even the airport). They also offer rates that are usually less expensive than taxi cabs. For instance, a taxi ride from the airport to the cruise port is a flat $30. It would be around $25 with Uber/Lyft.

Below we’ve estimated Uber/Lyft fares from certain points around town:

• Tampa International Airport: $20-25
• Orlando International Airport: $95-105
• St. Petersburg: $35-45
• Ybor City: $10
• Disney World: $75-85
• Lakeland: $40-50
• Clearwater: $35-40
• Sarasota: $60-65

Hotels with Cruise Shuttles Planning to stay at a hotel before your cruise? Some hotels offer shuttles to the cruise port as a perk for cruise passengers. Others are near public transportation that can get you to the ship in just a few minutes. No matter which option you choose, selecting a hotel with a shuttle can take a lot of the headache out of getting to the ship on embarkation day. See our article for a full list of Tampa hotels with cruise shuttles .

One of the best things about cruising from Port Tampa Bay is that parking is both convenient and inexpensive compared to other ports in Florida. For example, while parking for the Port of Miami is upwards of $20+ per day, you’ll only pay $15 — and at some lots much lower — to park for a Tampa cruise.

Official Port Parking Many people like to park at the official port parking lots. They offer a lot of convenience as they are right next to the cruise terminals. The main parking spot is a garage located across from terminals 2 and 3. Rates are $15 per day and you can pay in advance online to have everything taken care of before you arrive. There is also oversized vehicle parking available. There is also valet parking available for an additional $20. Terminal #6 has parking right next to the ship in an open-air lot.

If you are disabled, you may be eligible for free parking. The official port lots allow those with vehicle modifications such as ramps, or foot/hand controls to park for free if they are sailing. Also, 100% disabled veterans with license plates designating the car as such can also park for free.

Independent Lots One of the reasons that Tampa charges relatively little for parking is that the port faces a lot of competition. There are a number of independent lots that line Channelside Drive, in some cases costing as little as $7 per day (plus taxes and fees).

What’s the catch? There really isn’t one. These companies simply compete with the port for your business, and their main weapon is having lower rates. In fact, these lots are often right near the cruise terminal themselves and usually offer a shuttle if you don’t want to make the short walk.

For more details and pricing, see our Tampa cruise parking page here .

Hotels with Cruise Parking One of the best-kept secrets in cruising is that many hotels near cruise ports love to offer cruise parking to passengers in exchange for a single night’s stay. Book a room, get a night’s stay and have your parking taken care of as well. That’s hard to beat. Often you’ll need to book a package with the hotel that includes cruise parking, but it often includes both parking and transportation to the ship. See our list of Tampa hotels with cruise parking here .

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the cheapest way to get to Port Tampa Bay? Need to get to the port? There are a number of ways to get there. While there is some public transportation offered, it’s not particularly convenient, unless you are coming from Ybor City. Ybor City has a rail line ( TECO Streetcar ) that runs back and forth from Ybor City to the port area.

Other than that, the least expensive way we’ve found to get around is using Uber and Lyft. For example, it would cost around $25 to get from the airport to the cruise port using Lyft.

What’s the cheapest parking for a Tampa cruise? The lowest rate we know is about $4 per day, through 717 Parking. They operate a Union Station Lot that’s a mile or two from the cruise terminals. There is no shuttle offered, so you’ll have to get a ride to the cruise terminals. Still, to park for a week you won’t find any cheaper place unless you stay at a hotel with free cruise parking. See more on parking options here .

Where should I stay in Tampa before my cruise? We suggest trying to find a hotel in downtown Tampa or in Ybor City. Both areas are near the port and have a number of things to do. Staying here essentially adds another port of call to your cruise with lots to do and explore. Plus, it’s easy to get to the cruise ship from either location on embarkation day.

Have more questions about sailing from Tampa? Let us know in the comments below.

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Tampa, Florida, US

The sprawling subtropical metropolis of Tampa sits along the Gulf Coast of Florida, encircling Tampa Bay from Sarasota to Clearwater Beach. Book a Tampa Cruise and travel to tropical destinations in the Caribbean, Panama Canal, and the Bahamas. Tampa is a quintessentially American spot, with white-sand beaches sharing space with shopping malls, and a multicultural mix of residents that ensures flavors from Mexican to Vietnamese are always close at hand. The local lore is rich with moneyed magnates: Both Henry B. Plant and John Ringling, of the Ringling Brothers Circus, left their marks on the region in the form of palatial buildings which now house museums.

A tour of Ybor City offers a look at the other side of Tampa and its working-class past. Small cigar makers first opened in Tampa at the end of the 19th century. After the cigar industry's eventual decline, the neighborhood managed to rise—pun intended—from the ashes, and it has become a thriving, colorful destination steeped in history. While there, grab a Cuban sandwich from Florida’s oldest restaurant and shop for cigars and other souvenirs at Centro Ybor. And, of course, Florida has no shortage of family fun. Traveling to Tampa for a cruise, enjoy the Pier 60 Park in Clearwater Beach during the day or travel to Busch Gardens amusement park to get your adrenaline-pumping on roller coasters or visit hundreds of exotic animals at this park.

Looking for a relaxing vacation? Explore islands list Aruba, St. Lucia, Puerto Rico and more on a Tampa cruise.

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Your Guide to Cruising Out of Tampa

Floridians have an embarrassment of riches when it comes to cruising. Three of the world’s busiest cruise ports are located in Florida: Port Canaveral (which many call the Orlando port), Port Miami, and Port Everglades (Fort Lauderdale) all serve close to four million cruise passengers annually. However, Florida boasts three other, often overlooked cruise ports in the world’s top 100 busiest. Of these, the Tampa cruise port is the most active and offers the most cruising options. This article serves as your guide to cruising out of Tampa.

Cruising out of Tampa is unique. The port’s smaller size, combined with its location within Tampa Bay in downtown Tampa, creates an unusual experience that is truly unlike departing from Florida’s larger ports. Cruisers that steer clear of massive mega cruise ships will find the smaller vessels in Tampa a refreshing change from Florida’s east coast ports. And cruising under the Skyway Bridge is an experience every cruise aficionado should experience at least once.

How Big is Port Tampa Bay?

Serving one million passengers annually, Tampa’s cruise port isn’t what most people would consider “small.” While it’s the eighth largest cruise port in the continental US, it’s often overshadowed by ports in larger cities along the Atlantic coast.

However, Port Tampa Bay is a favorite among many because of its size, location, and ease of use. It is served by some of the most popular cruise lines in the U.S. and ships sail year-round to many favorite destinations in the Western Caribbean.

Taking the Scenic Route: Cruising Through Tampa Bay

Most cruise ports are located very close to open water, however cruising from Tampa offers a very different experience. Tampa Bay is a massive natural harbor off of the Gulf of Mexico, and actually consists of three “bays.”  Port Tampa Bay is located in the easternmost section of Tampa Bay, known as Hillsborough Bay, which borders the city of Tampa. Tampa proper is actually located quite a bit inland from the Gulf of Mexico, which means it takes time before reaching the Gulf.

Instead of navigating just one or two shipping channels before reaching open waters, your cruise will need to travel more than 25 miles through the bay. This means the first two hours of your cruise will be a unique experience. 

After you exit the port you’ll want to hang around the starboard side of the ship, because the port side will pass all the usual ugly commercial shipping port scenery. On the starboard side, you’ll pass Harbour Island , a residential isle just south of downtown Tampa. At the southernmost tip of the island, you’ll pass its adorable mini lighthouse on the property of the Bailey family mansion. Next, you’ll sail past Davis Island, best known for the mansion that once housed Derek Jeter and Tom Brady. 

After cruising through Hillsborough Bay, you’ll pass the interbay peninsula, home to MacDill Air Force Base before reaching the heart of Tampa Bay. Here, the waters are calm and you’ll likely see dolphins, as you cruise into the setting sun. The highlight of these two hours, however, will likely be your trip underneath the Sunshine Skyway Bridge, a topic deserving of its own article. You’ll see a crowd gathering on the top deck an hour or more before reaching the Skyway, jockeying for the best spot to experience the bridge.

Drawbacks to Cruising out of Tampa Bay

While the uniqueness of Tampa Bay makes for a special departure (and arrival, if you’re willing to get up that early), it can cause a few complications.  First, if you’re a fan of hitting the ship’s casino, remember that the casino cannot open until you reach international waters. That means a much longer wait before you can visit the poker tables and slot machines when you cruise out of Tampa.

Second, Tampa is one of only a handful of ports that will close down entirely because of fog. On our recent Tampa cruise, dense fog was forecast for Tampa on the day of our arrival. Early on our sea day (the day before arriving back in Tampa), the captain announced that we would be traveling at full speed on the way back to Florida in hopes of beating the weather. However, there was a very good chance that our ship would not be able to port in Tampa until noon or even later, especially if the fog didn’t lift until after 9am.

Because so many travelers had time-restrictive schedules (flights out of Tampa and Orlando), the cruise line offered complimentary phone service for the entire day so passengers could make alternate plans. As it turns out, we got to Tampa in the nick of time, and cruised under the Skyway around midnight, foghorns blaring. We were all able to disembark at our scheduled time, to the relief of many passengers.  

The moral to the story? If you’re cruising into Tampa, especially in the winter months, book your return flight for much later in the day. If the ship arrives on time, you’ll have plenty of time for sightseeing- but if your return is delayed, you won’t have any reason to panic.

Cruise Lines Sailing from Tampa

Some of the most popular cruise lines in the world cruise out of Port Tampa Bay. Carnival , Royal Caribbean , and Norwegian Cruise Lines all offer itineraries departing from Tampa year-round, while Celebrity offers sailings during the winter months. Later in 2024, Margaritaville at Sea will join these larger cruise lines in Tampa. 

Because cruise ships must be small enough to travel under the Sunshine Skyway Bridge, which connects St. Petersburg to the Bradenton/Sarasota area, the ships serving Tampa are considered mid-size. Averaging 950 feet in length, they’re certainly not tiny, but small by comparison to the mega-ships that have come into fashion in recent decades. By comparison, Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas is nearly 1,200 feet in length– more than a football field longer than Carnival Paradise.

What Cruise Ships Depart from Tampa?

With four major cruise lines departing from Tampa, you’ll find close to a dozen cruise ships departing from the port. However, you won’t find large ships– or particularly new ships.  Fortunately, cruise lines recognize the importance of these smaller ships, and often refurbish older ships with newer amenities.

Carnival Ships Serving Tampa

Three of Carnival Cruise Lines’ Spirit Class ships, Legend , Pride , and Spirit will port in Tampa at least part of 2024. Legend will arrive in Tampa in November after serving passengers in Europe and Baltimore, while Pride will serve Tampa January through April before repositioning to Baltimore. Carnival Spirit will visit Tampa with a 14-day itinerary in April as part of the cruise line’s Carnival Journeys program. While Spirit was built in 2001, Pride and Legend were built in 2002. Pride was most recently refurbished in 2023, while Legend received a makeover in 2022. Spirit’s most recent refurbishment was in 2021.

Carnival Paradise , a smaller Fantasy Class ship, will begin cruising from Tampa late in the year.  Of Carnival’s Tampa fleet, Paradise is the oldest ship, built in 1996, but received an extensive rejuvenation in 2023.

Celebrity Ships Serving Tampa

Only one Celebrity vessel is scheduled to port in Tampa in 2024: Celebrity Constellation, a Millennium Class ship. It will offer sailings January through March before moving to the Mediterranean for the summer. Constellation will then return in November to close out the year in Tampa. Constellation entered service in 2002 and was most recently renovated in 2017.

Norwegian Ships Serving Tampa

Norwegian Jade and Jewel , both Jewel Class vessels, are scheduled to cruise from Tampa in the winter months. Jade will offer cruises January-May before repositioning to Port Canaveral, Boston, and Miami. Jewel will begin serving Port Tampa Bay in November after spending the year in Asia and Alaska . Jade entered service in 2007 (as Pride of Hawaii) and was refurbished in 2017. Jewel was built in 2005 and refurbished in 2022.

Royal Caribbean Ships Serving Tampa

Enchantment Class ships Radiance of the Seas and Serenade of the Seas from Royal Caribbean both operate seasonally out of Port Tampa Bay in 2024. Built in 1997, Radiance will offer cruises January-April before repositioning to Alaska, then return in October. Built in 2001, Serenade will begin docking in Tampa in September after spending the year cruising Asia and Europe. Serenade was refurbished in 2012, and Radiance received a significant facelift in 2016

Two Royal Caribbean Vision Class ships will also offer cruises out of Tampa in 2024: Enchantment of the Seas and Grandeur of the Seas. Launched in 1997, Enchantment cruises year-round out of Port Tampa Bay. It received a major upgrade in 2017. Grandeur, which is Royal Caribbean’s smallest ship, will cruise from Tampa April through October. It was launched in 1996 and refurbished in 2012.

Margaritaville at Sea Ships Serving Tampa

Previously only serving the Port of Palm Beach on Florida’s east coast, small cruise line Margaritaville at Sea will add a second ship to its fleet in summer 2024. The Sea Islander, formerly Costa Atlantica, has been completely refurbished for its new home at Port Tampa Bay. The ship was built in 2000 using the same platform design as Carnival’s Spirit-class ships that serve Tampa.

Where Can You Cruise to From Tampa?

Like other ports in the Gulf of Mexico, Port Tampa Bay sometimes gets a bad rap for offering a limited set of itineraries. True, the majority of shorter cruises out of Tampa visit Western Caribbean favorites like Cozumel. However, you’ll still find some interesting longer itineraries departing from Tampa.

Other typical ports on shorter cruises out of Tampa include Costa Maya, Roatan, Belize City, Key West, and Grand Cayman.  The majority of cruises visiting these destinations will range from 4-7 nights, and will include at least one sea day. You’ll also find occasional trips to the Bahamas out of Tampa.

However, if you’re able to commit to a longer cruise, you’ll find many more options.  Celebrity travels to the southern Caribbean, including stops in Panama and Colombia. Some Celebrity cruises out of Tampa also include a stop in New Orleans. Royal Caribbean offers Tampa-based itineraries to the eastern Caribbean , which may include stops in the U.S. Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico, St. Maartin, St. Croix, and the Dominican Republic. Royal also offers some longer western Caribbean itineraries that include Costa Rica and Panama. Norwegian also offers eastern Caribbean cruises, as well as trips to the southern Caribbean, including the famed ABC islands (Aruba, Bonaire and Curacao). Finally, Carnival offers round-trip Panama Canal cruises during the winter months.

Repositioning Cruises from Port Tampa Bay

Because many of the cruise ships that serve Tampa are part-year residents, Tampa offers a number of longer, repositioning cruises.  

What are repositioning cruises?  When a cruise line needs to move a ship to a new home port, they’ll typically offer a one-way cruise to that destination. Repositioning cruises are common with ships that serve seasonal wintry regions like Alaska or Northern Europe. Although you’ll need to pay for your airfare back home, these cruises are often quite cost-effective. They also often stop at ports that cruises infrequently visit, like the Azores.

This means you may find a Celebrity14-day Transatlantic cruise that departs from Tampa and arrives in the Mediterranean Sea. But Repositioning cruises may also take you to other parts of the United States. Carnival sometimes offers a repositioning cruise from Tampa to Baltimore, taking the long way around and visiting the southern Caribbean. Royal Caribbean has offered another domestic repositioning cruise that travels through the Panama Canal and ends on the west cost.

Where is Tampa’s Cruise Port Located?

Tampa’s cruise port is conveniently located at 1101 Channelside Drive, near both downtown Tampa and tourist favorite Ybor City. Because of its close proximity to the Leroy Selmon Expressway and I-4, the port is easy to get to from some of Florida’s largest metro areas. Aside from the Tampa-St. Petersburg region, travelers from Orlando, Sarasota, and the Cape Coral/Fort Myers areas will find the drive to the Port of Tampa fairly painless (although some Orlando residents familiar with I-4 might argue that point). 

Attractions near Tampa’s Port

Channelside Drive is best known for the bustling Sparkman Wharf , a lively hub for dining and entertainment located just a short walk from the port. How close? The first time we visited many years ago (when it was called Channelside), my husband spotted the top of a cruise ship behind the bar we were entering and said, “What’s that place? It looks fun!”  He was completely surprised when I informed him that a cruise ship was docked right behind this dynamic entertainment district. (We were very new to Florida at the time)

Tampa Channelside

Other features in the Channelside area include Amalie Arena , home to the Tampa Bay Lightning . The Florida Aquarium is located next door to the port, and the Tampa Bay Convention Center is also nearby. Since you’ll likely park in the Channelside Parking Garage before your cruise, we highly recommend arriving a few hours early to enjoy all that the Channelside district has to offer. You can walk to Sparkman Wharf in about 10-15 minutes from the port, do a little sightseeing, or even relax in Cotanchobee Fort Brooke Park.  After your Tampa cruise returns, consider a visit to The Florida Aquarium. This gem next to the port is considered one of the best in the United States. You might also consider scheduling some time for sightseeing on the Tampa Water Taxi or the Pirate Water Taxi .

Historic Ybor City is another great spot to visit near Port Tampa Bay, although slightly further away. Ybor is a small neighborhood established in the 1880s by Cuban immigrants. It was once known as the Cigar Capital of the World, Today, Ybor is home to many bars, restaurants, breweries, nightclubs, and shops. Although Ybor has had a bad reputation for crime in the past, historic Ybor City is generally considered a safe neighborhood, especially by day. A walk to historic Ybor will take at least half an hour, but you can also take the Teco Streetcar .

One of Ybor’s most popular attractions is the Michelin-recommended Columbia Restaurant , the oldest continuously-operated restaurant in the state, and the oldest Spanish restaurant in the entire country. Known for delicious Cuban and Spanish cuisine, the restaurant also boasts a massive wine list with more than 1,000 choices. Although you may not need a reservation for lunch, dinner reservations are highly recommended. Columbia also offers a flamenco dance show during dinner every night except Sunday (a nominal cover charge applies).

Are you ready to book a cruise out of Tampa?

Contact us to talk about your options for cruising out of Port Tampa Bay. Email [email protected] or complete our no-obligation inquiry form and get packing!

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Ships That Homeport In The Port of Tampa, Florida

• Carnival Paradise | Carnival Cruise Lines
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• Serenade of the Seas | Royal Caribbean International

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10 Night Southern Caribbean Cruise

Your ship enchantment of the seas.

KICK BACK OR KICK IT UP A NOTCH

Rock Climbing Wall

Adventure Ocean ®

FAR OUT FEASTING

Chops Grille℠

Chef's Table

Main Dining Room

Cue the action.

Can't Stop the Rock

Stage to Screen

Day 1: Tampa, Florida

CULTURE FIX

HIT THE SAND

LOCAL CUISINE

Day 2: Cruising

Spa & Fitness Center

Day 3: George Town, Grand Cayman

Swim with Sea Turtles

Stroll the Seven Mile Beach

Tee Off in Paradise

Get to Know the Locals

Local Cuisine

Popular shore excursions, amazing experiences coming soon., day 4: cruising.

Café Latte-tudes

Room Service

Day 5: oranjestad, aruba.

ROADS LESS TRAVELED

CALIFORNIA DREAMIN’

SEA FLOOR EXPLORING

Day 6: Kralendijk, Bonaire

Chief of the Reef

Beach is Up

For the Birds

Day 7: Willemstad, Curacao

STOP FOR A PHOTO OP

TAKE A HIKE

HISTORY AND MYSTERY

Day 8 - 10: Cruising

Schooner Bar

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Day 11: tampa, florida.

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Carnival Freedom returns to cruising within 2 weeks of funnel fire

Passengers aboard burning cruise not expected to see refund.

James Sparvero , Reporter

PORT CANAVERAL, Fla. – Less than two weeks since a cruise ship caught on fire, the Carnival Freedom returned to sailing Thursday.

On March 23 in the Bahamas, passengers took video of the ship’s funnel burning after it was believed to have been struck by lightning.

It was the second time in two years that the ship’s funnel caught fire.

Like the May 2022 fire, Carnival will also have to replace its signature ‘whale tail’ at the top of the funnel, which was burned again.

[EXCLUSIVE: Become a News 6 Insider (it’s FREE) | PINIT! Share your photos ]

Thursday, passengers talked to News 6 reporter James Sparvero about boarding the ship for its first cruise to the Bahamas since the fire.

Cornelia Marshall was traveling with friends from Birmingham, Alabama.

“We put it in God’s hands,” she said. “I mean, that was an act of mother nature. There’s nothing you can do about it.”

Thursday, Carnival said it was still investigating a possible lightning strike as the cause of the fire.

Marshall and her friends also weren’t concerned about the ship catching on fire two years earlier.

“You know, when life gives you lemons, just take tequila shots because we’re coming on the cruise,” Marshall said.

Another group of passengers said they were unhappy that Carnival didn’t tell them about the March 23 incident.

Kelin Sorto from Philadelphia said she found out there was a fire from her Uber driver, who brought her family to the port.

“That’s my only concern because how fast can they fix that problem?” she said. “They assured us that it’s secure. Hopefully, it is. We’re just trying to have fun.”

Carnival refunded passengers for the two canceled cruises, but if you were on the cruise that caught on fire and you’re still expecting a refund, you won’t be getting one.

A statement from Carnival reads, “We’re very proud of the Carnival Freedom team for keeping everyone safe and still delivering a full cruise to the guests who were on board. We appreciate our guests for their cooperation and support.”

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About the Author

James sparvero.

James joined News 6 in March 2016 as the Brevard County Reporter. His arrival was the realization of a three-year effort to return to the state where his career began. James is from Pittsburgh, PA and graduated from Penn State in 2009 with a degree in Broadcast Journalism.

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• Life & Culture

St. Petersburg’s American Stage in the Park returns: 7 things to know for 2024

• Maggie Duffy Times staff

Beloved St. Petersburg tradition American Stage in the Park returns to Demens Landing Park on the downtown waterfront April 3. The annual outdoor event is the theater company’s largest production, on a stage they construct in an open field.

This year’s production is “Beauty and the Beast,” based on the 1991 Disney animated film. The “tale as old as time” has themes of redemption, love and inner beauty, with talking clocks and teapots. It includes songs “Be Our Guest” and the titular “Beauty and the Beast” with music by Alan Menken and lyrics by Howard Ashman and Tim Rice.

Outdoor live theater is a unique experience. To help you navigate it, here’s what to know about the show, where to park, theme nights and ideas for snacks to bring.

What to know about this production of ‘Beauty and the Beast’

We caught up with Kenny Moten, the show’s director, and Alexi Ishida, who plays Belle. This is the first time either has worked with American Stage.

Ishida was the understudy for the role on Disney Cruise Lines — which is based on the 2017 live-action movie — but never actually got to perform it.

“It’s really nice to get to be able to revisit the original animated classic and also get to fully flesh her out, because I didn’t really feel like I got a chance to on the ship,” she said.

Ishida said she and Moten are working to bring out Belle’s “bite” — sassy one-liners that make Belle feel more contemporary than stereotypical Disney princesses.

Moten said he’s encouraging actors to not only bring themselves to the roles, but also to create a version that resonates with young people watching it for the first time.

“We’ve just taken some ideas to, you know, really kind of bring it into a little more modern times,” he said. “If Cogsworth is whistling a tune, you might hear another song that you might recognize from another film.”

The pre-show playlist is pop music-forward with a focus on being family-friendly.

“We really are creating community and a party in the park prior to the show,“ he said. “We’ve really gone into thinking about what does the experience feel like from start to finish. It’s not just the show. It’s walking to Demens Landing, it’s sitting in the park. It’s feeling that sense of community.”

Directing a show of this size is a “big lift,” Moten said, but very exciting.

“There’s just nothing like sitting outside under the stars and watching live theater,” he said.

Themed nights for 2024

While there is no official singalong night, feel free to dress in character and belt out the tunes during any show.

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Preview nights are April 3-4 with reduced ticket prices: $28 for general blanket and chairs, $33 for premium blanket and $43 for premium chairs.

The official opening night on Friday, April 5 , is a fundraiser. Options include a dinner table seat with tableside food and beverage service for $150 or a reserved chair with open bar option that includes wine, beer, soft drinks and light snacks for $75.

Express yourself at Pride night on Sunday, April 14 .

“Bring your beast to meet their Belle” on Pets in the Park Night on Sunday, April 21 .

What kind of seating is allowed

There are a few different seating options for the park shows. One is the general blanket area that allows blankets and chairs with no legs. There’s also a premium blanket option for those who want to be closer to the stage; chairs with no legs are also allowed in this section. All other chairs will be seated in the general chair section. The final section is for those who want to purchase a reserved chair seat.

Pack a picnic for American Stage in the Park

Concessions offering beverages and food will be available, including popcorn and charcuterie boards with vegan and vegetarian options.

But you can also bring in your own food. Need inspiration? A few years ago, we came up with ideas for three different kinds of picnics to bring. Think: easily packable pasta salads and make-ahead bruschetta, meats and cheeses and fruits.

Where to park near Demens Landing Park

Demens Landing Park is on the waterfront in downtown St. Petersburg, at Bayshore Drive and Second Avenue South. These are the two closest parking options: Southcore Garage, 101 First Ave. S., $1 per hour (max $7); and Al Lang parking lot 1, 230 First St. S., $5 per day. For more downtown St. Pete parking, visit discoverdowntown .

Will bad weather cancel a show?

If it’s looking like bad weather, check American Stage’s Facebook and Instagram pages for the latest updates on whether the show is canceled. Ticketholders will also be notified by email and issued a credit that can be used to rebook. If you have any questions, call the box office at 727-823-7529 or email [email protected] .

How to get tickets

The show runs Wednesday-Sunday at 7:30 p.m. through May 5. Tickets are $35 general blanket and chairs, $45 premium blanket and $50 reserved chair. They can be purchased by calling the box office at 727-823-7529 or visiting americanstage.org . Demens Landing Park is located at Bayshore Drive and Second Avenue S.E., St. Petersburg.

Maggie Duffy is an art and dining reporter, covering Tampa Bay’s arts scene and the next new place to eat. Reach her at [email protected].

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Eight passengers stranded on African island after Norwegian cruise ship left without them

A dream cruise vacation has turned into a nightmare for eight passengers left stranded on the African island of São Tomé and Príncipe after their ship left without them because they were late to return from a private tour.

The tourists — six from the U.S. and two from Australia — were aboard the Norwegian Dawn, a Norwegian cruise line ship , which departed from Cape Town, South Africa, on March 20 for a 21-day voyage up the coast of Africa set to end in Barcelona, Spain, on April 10.

But on Wednesday, the group of eight tourists was late to return to the ship by more than an hour for the all-aboard time of 3 p.m. from a private excursion on the island, which was not organized by the cruise line.

Jay and Jill Campbell of South Carolina were part of the group that was left behind.

They said that their tour’s operator notified the cruise captain that they were going to be late to rejoin the ship and that the local Coast Guard tried to get them on the vessel but that they weren’t allowed to board.

As a result, the couple and the rest of the group have been stranded for days on the island off Nigeria, grappling with language, currency issues and complicated travel to catch up with the ship.

“The lovely people of São Tomé were very gracious, very hospitable. They had reached out as much as they could to help us find hotels,” Jay Campbell said on NBC's "TODAY" show Tuesday morning.

“We were able to get to a tour agency there to arrange flights to the next port of call. ... Very difficult process — you’re dealing with multiple languages, language barriers, you’re dealing with different currencies ... finding someone that even has dollars ... trying to get an agent to understand where we need to get to.

"It’s one of those ‘You can’t get there from here,’" he added.

A Norwegian spokesperson called the incident a “very unfortunate situation” and said, “Guests are responsible for ensuring they return to the ship at the published time.”

The cruise line said that after the guests failed to return, their passports were delivered to local port agents, in line with protocol. The company said it was working with local authorities to understand “the requirements and visas needed for the guests to reboard the ship at the next available port of call.”

On Monday, the guests had made arrangements to rejoin the ship in Banjul, Gambia, but the ship was unable to safely dock there because of “adverse weather conditions” and “tidal restrictions,” Norwegian said. The guests were then contacted and provided with information to rejoin the ship at Dakar, Senegal, on Tuesday. 

Jill Campbell said they traveled through seven countries in 48 hours to arrive in Senegal on Monday night.

But the couple was reconsidering whether they even wanted to return to the cruise.

"We are considering whether or not we are going to board the ship. It is in dock here in Senegal," she said. "We believe there was a basic duty of care that they had forgotten about, so it does concern us."

"After what we witnessed, we truly believe that although there’s a set of rules or policies that the ship may have followed, they followed those rules too rigidly. I believe that they really forgot that they are people working in the hospitality industry and really the safety and well-being of the customers should be their first priority," she added.

Ultimately, the eight passengers did rejoin the cruise before 8:30 a.m. ET Tuesday in Dakar, Senegal, Norwegian told NBC News in an e-mail Tuesday evening, after this story originally published.

Norwegian said the passengers were responsible for making their own travel arrangements to rejoin the ship.

"Despite the series of unfortunate events outside of our control, we will be reimbursing these eight guests for their travel costs from Banjur, Gambia to Dakar, Senegal," a cruise line spokesperson said in a statement. "We remain in communication with the guests and are providing additional information as it becomes available."

A silver lining of the catastrophe was that the Campbells were able to connect with another Norwegian Dawn passenger — Julia Lenkoff, 80 — who was also left on the island, but for a medical reason.

Lenkoff was on a different day tour Wednesday. She had "medically disembarked" from the cruise to seek local treatment on that day, Norwegian said.

Norwegian said that its care team tried to call Lenkoff several times and was unable to reach her and that it worked with its port agent in São Tomé and Príncipe for updates on her health.

The Campbells met Lenkoff and were able to put her in contact with her family in California, who flew her home — a move Lenkoff's daughter said "saved her life."

"She's a world traveler. She travels all the time. So this was going to be one of her bucket list trips, because she's been to 120 countries so far, and she wanted to get to 130," her daughter, Lana Lenkoff Geis, said in an interview that aired Tuesday on "TODAY."

Norwegian said Lenkoff was escorted on a flight to Lisbon, Portugal, then put in the care of airport staff members to continue her journey back to the U.S., where she has safely returned.

Breaking News Reporter